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UK Motorways Now Slower Than Cycling?
14 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Northbound M25 near Dartford shows slowest speeds at 14.9mph.
- Overall average speed on major roads drops to a record 56.1mph.
- Nine motorways now have sections averaging below 30mph.
Traffic speeds on the UK's major motorways have fallen to an all-time low, with some sections moving slower than a bicycle. The northbound approach to the Dartford tunnel on the M25 exhibits the slowest average speed at a mere 14.9mph, making it slower than typical cycling speeds.
Nationally, the average speed across major motorways and A-roads has declined to a record 56.1mph. Department of Transport figures reveal that nine motorways now have at least one stretch where average speeds dip below 30mph. This represents a significant decrease from pandemic times when average speeds rose due to reduced traffic.
This severe congestion poses a risk to the UK's economic recovery, according to the Road Haulage Association. They emphasize the urgency of initiating new road projects to improve journey reliability for hauliers and motorists alike, stressing that efficient transport networks are crucial for economic stability.
